ABSTRACT
The visit of the Ludford family to Sir Edward and Lady Newenden that evening, had been principally at the desire of Mr. Rupert and Miss Clarinthia, who flattered themselves that they might be included in the party to Lord Danesforte’s. Mrs. Ludford, while she affected to despise every thing but the substantial comforts of riches, was yet very solicitous to be noticed by ‘people of quality;’ and was never so well pleased as when she compared that affluence acquired by trade, to the more brilliant but frequently ill supported splendor of such of the nobility as believed themselves obliged to make an appearance more equal to their rank than to their fortune. Every opportunity therefore of making this comparison she eagerly seized; and when they afforded at once gratification to her pride, and occasion to display the talents of her son, every thing was obtained that could make her eager for the party.
